NetNewsWire
Brent Simmons
NetNewsWire is a free and open-source RSS reader for macOS, iPhone, and iPad. It allows you to follow your favorite blogs and news sites, keeping track of what you’ve read, and helps you take back control of your news.
User Sentiments
Top Likes
- Free and open source
- Fast and stable performance
- Clean and modern interface
- iCloud syncing across devices
- Customizable themes
Top Dislikes
- Limited customization compared to paid alternatives
- Fewer syncing service options than some competitors
- No image thumbnails in article lists (feature request)
Popular Comments
John Gruber - Daring Fireball
2019-08-29
It is fast, small, and remarkably stable. It looks and feels and acts exactly how a modern Mac app should — and at the same time it feels and acts exactly like the NetNewsWire of a decade ago.
Nick Heer - Pixel Envy
2019-08-29
I adore its simplicity, clarity, and speed.
Josh Ginter - The Sweet Setup
2019-08-29
Everything about NNW 5 is lightning fast and I haven't found a single crash in my use so far.
MacUpdate User - fukuricheck
2024-12-06
Very reliable app. Sadly it still lacks support for Nextcloud news, which is a bummer.
Reddit User - Slartibartfastwashere
2023-06-29
They added iCloud sync a while ago and NetNewsWire has been on my Home Screen since then and it's one of my most used apps. I love it.
Mac App Store User - miltador
2022-01-12
Best free RSS reader. I use it on my Mac as well as iPhone and synchronise subscriptions through iCloud.
Detailed Review
NetNewsWire is a resurrected and revitalized RSS reader, now free and open-source, for macOS, iPhone, and iPad. Originally developed by Brent Simmons, it offers a fast, stable, and native experience for keeping up with your favorite websites and blogs. NetNewsWire stands out by prioritizing simplicity and efficiency, providing a distraction-free reading environment. It supports multiple accounts and syncing through iCloud and various third-party services like Feedbin, Feedly, and more. While it may not have the extensive customization options of some paid RSS readers, NetNewsWire delivers a robust and user-friendly experience, making it an excellent choice for both casual and power users looking for a reliable RSS solution on their Apple devices.
Standout Features
- Free and Open Source: Completely free to use and its source code is publicly available.
- Native macOS App: Designed to feel right at home on macOS with a modern and clean interface.
- iCloud Syncing: Seamlessly syncs feeds and read statuses across Mac, iPhone, and iPad via iCloud.
- Multiple Sync Services: Supports various popular RSS syncing services including Feedbin, Feedly, and more.
- Customizable Themes: Offers customizable article themes and supports dark mode.
- Reader View: Provides a reader view for easily reading articles inline.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Offers extensive keyboard shortcuts for efficient navigation.
- Safari Extension: Includes a Safari extension for easy feed subscription.
Conclusion
NetNewsWire is highly recommended as a top-tier RSS reader for Mac users, especially for those seeking a free, open-source, and reliable application. Its speed, stability, and ease of use, combined with essential features like iCloud syncing and a clean interface, make it a compelling alternative to paid RSS readers. While users seeking advanced customization might find it slightly lacking compared to alternatives like Reeder, NetNewsWire excels in providing a core RSS reading experience that is both enjoyable and efficient. Its active development and strong community support promise continued improvements and feature additions, solidifying its position as a leading RSS reader in the Apple ecosystem.
